On Nov. 17, the California Lions Club met for their final meeting of the year.
While there, the group was addressed by United Way of Central Missouri President and CPO Ann Bax to see if the group would like to participate in or donate any funds to the organization.
Bax said United Way of Central Missouri has been a fixture in the area for the past 96 years. She said there are already 28 United Way agency partners, but there is always room for more. Bax said by working together with these agencies, United Way of Central Missouri is able to assist individuals who may be in need.
By raising funds for and working through each agency, United Way is able to help feed, clothe or house people, Bax said. The Lions Club was very responsive to Bax's proposal, but the group indicated it would not be able to confirm whether or not they could donate to the organization until their next meeting in February 2022.
Moving on to other items on their agenda, Lions Club President Sarah Jones reminded the group they were scheduled to set decorations for "Christmas in Proctor Park" on Nov. 29.
The Lions Club is also preparing for other holiday activities, including the Christmas Extravaganza for the Missouri School for the Blind. Unfortunately, due to illness among the school's population, Jones said the celebration will probably take place virtually. While the Lions Club will still be donating $300 for a student sponsorship, they most likely will not be able to celebrate in person. Jones said if that is the case, she plans to visit the student's family to bring them toys and other presents offered by the group.
The group also discussed sending out postcards to all area businesses to gauge interest in joining the Lions Club. Club members agreed any new individual or business who would like to be a part of their group is more than welcome to join.
The California Lions Club's next meeting will take place Feb. 2, 2022.